By Nimfa L. Estrellado-Laurino PIA Quezon Information Center Manager Cecille Cambe Maloles with PhilHealth officials during the Kapihan sa ...
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| PIA Quezon Information Center Manager Cecille Cambe Maloles with PhilHealth officials during the Kapihan sa PIA Quezon forum on healthcare programs and member benefits. (Pacific Mall Lucena) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Many Filipinos qualify for PhilHealth benefits without fully understanding how to access them, prompting the state insurer to strengthen its public information campaign in Quezon. During the Kapihan sa PIA Quezon forum on July 8 at Pacific Mall, Lucena City, PhilHealth officials discussed the YAKAP program, the GAMOT initiative and other services supporting the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law.
Beyond explaining government programs, the forum emphasized the role of accurate information in helping members make informed healthcare decisions. PhilHealth officials said stronger public awareness can help reduce confusion about health insurance and encourage timely use of available medical services.
The discussion covered the PhilHealth YAKAP program, the GAMOT initiative, benefit packages and accreditation procedures while addressing questions on healthcare coverage and member services. Officials also explained how accredited healthcare providers support the delivery of quality care under PhilHealth programs.
PIA Quezon Information Center Manager Cecille Cambe Maloles moderated the forum, which featured Arturo C. Ardiente, Division Chief of the Field Operations Division, Dr. Maria Theresa G. Liwanag, Head of the Benefits Administration Section, and Dr. Daisy D. Apolinar, Medical Specialist I of the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Section.
The discussion then shifted to the role of informed members in making government health programs more effective. Officials said understanding available services encourages people to seek medical care earlier while making better use of the benefits already available to them.
Division Chief Arturo C. Ardiente said PhilHealth continues to strengthen information campaigns alongside improvements in member services. He emphasized that helping Filipinos understand available benefits is just as important as expanding the programs themselves.
The forum also underscored the importance of preventive healthcare in improving health outcomes and reducing avoidable medical expenses. PhilHealth officials encouraged the public to seek early consultation and make full use of healthcare services offered through accredited providers.
Dr. Maria Theresa G. Liwanag stressed that early consultation allows patients to address health concerns before they become more serious. She also encouraged members to stay informed about PhilHealth benefits so they can fully utilize the services available when medical needs arise.
The discussion likewise highlighted the role of accreditation in maintaining the quality and reliability of healthcare services available to PhilHealth members. Officials said accredited healthcare providers play an important part in ensuring members receive services that meet the agency's standards.
Dr. Daisy D. Apolinar explained that accreditation helps ensure participating facilities comply with PhilHealth's standards for delivering patient care. She said maintaining those standards supports the agency's commitment to providing quality healthcare services for its members.
As medical costs continue to weigh on many Filipino families, PhilHealth officials said understanding available benefits can be as important as receiving them. They urged members to keep their PhilHealth records updated and rely on official PhilHealth channels for accurate information on available services and benefit packages.
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